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Maidenhair fairy moth facts for kids

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Maidenhair fairy moth
Musotima aduncalis male.jpg
Male
Musotima aduncalis female.jpg
Female
Scientific classification
Kingdom:
Phylum:
Class:
Order:
Family:
Genus:
Musotima
Species:
M. aduncalis
Binomial name
Musotima aduncalis
(C. Felder, R. Felder & Rogenhofer, 1875)
Synonyms
  • Diathrausta aduncalis C. Felder, R. Felder & Rogenhofer, 1875

The Musotima aduncalis is a type of moth that belongs to the Crambidae family. It was first described by three scientists, Cajetan Felder, Rudolf Felder, and Alois Friedrich Rogenhofer, in 1875. This special moth is found only in New Zealand, which means it is endemic to that country.

What Does the Musotima aduncalis Moth Look Like?

Adult Musotima aduncalis moths can look quite different from each other. Their colors can range from a bright white to a yellowish-brown, also known as ochreous yellow. This color variation helps them blend into their surroundings.

Where Do These Moths Live?

This moth species is unique because it lives only in New Zealand. You won't find it naturally anywhere else in the world! This makes it an important part of New Zealand's local wildlife.

What Do Musotima aduncalis Larvae Eat?

The young moths, called larvae (which are like caterpillars), have a specific diet. They enjoy eating plants from the Adiantum group. These plants are commonly known as maidenhair ferns.

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